DBT Therapy in Colorado Springs
Drift Behavioral Health provides structured dialectical behavior therapy for clients facing emotional dysregulation, substance abuse, or high-conflict behavior patterns. Our licensed clinicians deliver targeted, evidence-based care for long-term change.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) helps people manage intense emotions, handle stress, and respond more effectively to everyday challenges. It combines CBT techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies to support mental health and substance abuse recovery.
What to expect:
- DBT sessions are integrated into all levels of care
- Both telehealth and in-person therapy are available
- We offer individual, group, and skills-based sessions
- Clinicians are trained in trauma-informed approaches
DBT Therapy for Addiction Recovery
This form of counseling is highly effective in treating substance misuse. It helps people build emotional regulation skills, reduce impulsive behavior, and cope with their cravings. It encourages mindfulness and intentional decision-making, especially during high-stress moments that might trigger relapse.
DBT for Mental Health Disorders
Dialectical behavior therapy is widely used to treat mental health conditions involving emotional reactivity or instability. DBT for borderline personality disorder is the most well-known application, but it also supports clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders by improving coping, stability, and self-awareness.
DBT Therapy Techniques at Drift Behavioral Health
Virtual and in-person treatment options
Weekly individual and group sessions
Real-time coaching and between-session support
Practical tools for emotion control and mindfulness
Dialectical Behavior Therapy vs. CBT
Thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and mindfulness
Emotion regulation, distress tolerance, acceptance
BPD, PTSD, emotion dysregulation, self-harm
Validation and behavior change
Thoughts and behaviors
Cognitive reframing, coping strategies
Depression, anxiety, substance use
Goal-oriented, problem-solving
DBT Therapy Skills and Examples
At Drift, dialectical behavior therapy is available in each of our levels of care.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Full-day therapy and training 5–6 days per week
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Structured part-time care 3–5 days per week
- Outpatient Program (OP): Weekly therapy and skills support for continued progress
- Telehealth Services: Virtual counseling and online medication management from home
DBT Group Therapy
Group sessions are a key part of dialectical behavior therapy at Drift. In a structured group setting, clients learn and practice a variety of DBT strategies. Group work offers peer support and real-time feedback from trained clinicians.
What Does Dialectical Behavior Therapy Treat?
DBT helps people manage strong emotions and stay in control of their behavior. At Drift, we use it to treat:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Depression and anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Substance use disorders
- Eating disorders
- Self-harm and suicidal thoughts
DBT for Borderline Personality Disorder
DBT is the gold standard for treating borderline personality disorder. It helps reduce emotional instability, strengthen boundaries, and improve relationships. At Drift, we also apply these techniques to co-occurring conditions like substance use and PTSD.
Get Expert DBT Therapy at Drift Behavioral Health
Dialectical behavior therapy can help you navigate stress, regulate emotions, and improve how you respond to difficult situations. At Drift Behavioral Health, our trained clinicians use a proven, structured approach to support your recovery. Reach out today to get started with DBT in Colorado Springs or online.
FAQs About DBT
What does DBT stand for?
DBT stands for Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
What are the six main points of dialectical behavior therapy?
The six core components include: acceptance and change, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, and behavioral strategies.
How long is DBT therapy?
Programs typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the level of care and your individual goals.
What is the 24-hour rule in DBT?
Clients agree not to make life-altering decisions (like quitting treatment) for 24 hours after a crisis, allowing time for emotional regulation.
What does DBT not work for?
DBT may be less effective for individuals who are not ready to commit to structure or skill practice. It is not a replacement for medication or inpatient crisis stabilization.
What is the 5-minute rule in DBT?
It’s a distress tolerance skill encouraging you to wait 5 minutes before acting on a strong emotion or urge, allowing time for mindful reflection.
Can you do DBT by yourself?
Some skills can be practiced independently, but full DBT treatment is most effective with the support of a trained therapist and structured program.
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